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RIFT valley fever is a virus that can be transmitted to humans from animals, and symptoms include fever, headaches and joint pain. The viral infection, which is passed on by mosquitoes, like the Zika virus, is currently in Africa, but a health expert has told Express.co.uk that Rift Valley Fever could reach the UK.

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“[It’s] is a very important point,” Lo Iacono told Express.co.uk. “We definitely need to be aware of the risk, especially because of the expected change in the climate.

“The problem should not be underestimated, and Rift Valley Fever is on the list of priority diseases for the WHO given its potential to cause a public health emergency, and the absence of efficacious drugs and/or vaccines.

“The main lesson is to remain vigilant.”

The Zika virus is a good example of how climate change can spread diseases to new parts of the world, said Lo Iacano.

“[Zika] is also spread by insects and was considered a minor pathogen when first identified in Uganda in 1947,” he said.

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“The first large outbreak of disease caused by Zika infection was reported from the Island of Yap in 2007.

“There are currently several countries worldwide experiencing Zika virus outbreaks.”

But, if RVF were to reach the UK, it’s unlikely to be high risk, added Lo Iacono.

Any country that has strong measures to prevent a spread wouldn't be high risk, he said. That could include mosquito nets to protect against the virus spreading from mosquito bites.

Still, it’s crucial to be aware of the signs and symptoms of RVF, he added.